When I first saw the ratings for this film on Letterboxd, I wondered what made it so special to be one of the highest-rated films on the platform. So, I decided to watch it. The film tells the story of a young boy living through the horrors of World War II. He starts out innocent and carefree in a small village, but soon faces the harsh realities of war. As he moves through war-torn areas, he sees both the cruelty and strength of people around him. His journey shows the deep emotional scars and trauma that war leaves. The film runs for about 2 hrs and 22 min, a length that feels justified by the story’s depth and intensity. It’s freely available on YouTube with English subtitles on the Mosfilm channel, so there’s no barrier to experiencing it. After watching it, I felt a strange sense of privilege, relieved to be born in a time of 2000s. What makes this film remarkable is its powerful mix of acting, narration, and raw emotion. The cinematography also stands out. The way the camera focuses on certain objects, lingering to convey their significance, or pulls back to show the massive scale of the war - troops, explosions, gunfire - feels astonishing, especially considering it was made in 1985. As the film draws to a close, it leaves you with a heavy heart, showing just how terrible war can be. Some scenes are really brutal; if you’re emotionally strong, you might get through them without looking away. But for some people, the film will leave a lasting impression. I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates war movies. It’s a must-watch.

Come and See by Elem Klimov is a cinematic masterpiece that skillfully integrates technical. The film's meticulous shot composition, fluid camera movements, desaturated color palette, and naturalistic lighting are used to immerse the viewer in the protagonist's psychological descent. The innovative use of sound design, especially the integration of disorienting soundscapes, further blurs the lines between reality and perception, enhancing the film's emotional impact. The film explores profound themes such as the transformation of identity, the dynamics of power and oppression, the impact of trauma on memory, and the ethical complexities of war. These themes are intricately woven into the narrative, providing a deep exploration of the human condition under extreme duress. Come and See raises significant philosophical questions about the nature of reality, free will, and ethics in the context of war. Its unflinching depiction of the brutality and dehumanization inherent in war challenges traditional narratives that glorify conflict. Instead, Klimov presents a raw and immersive portrayal of war's devastating impact on individuals and societies. Within Elem Klimov's oeuvre, Come and See represents the culmination of his cinematic vision, integrating the thematic and stylistic concerns he developed in earlier films. Come and See is a film of immense historical and theoretical significance, continuing to resonate with audiences, a haunting exploration of the darkest aspects of human experience and a powerful reminder of the catastrophic consequences of war. — Filmripple

Is the most unforgiving war film I have ever seen. It is an astonishing work of pure devastation. Something about this movie seems uncomfortably real. For one, the acting coming from Aleksey Kravchenko is beyond his years, he’s incredibly good. He completely fools you into thinking this is what he's going through. The natural lighting, the weather, the subtle mistakes...Klimov (the director) doesn't shy away from showing violence, explosions, and nastiness. He incorporates a head-on approach to filming that brings you even closer to the action, a place you already don't want to be. This quickly turns from a war film to a horror. And it's the horror that's seen through the eyes of 13 year old Flor that is palpable. Come and See is undeniably amongst the greatest films ever made, and is an enduring landmark of Soviet cinema whose potency & relevance will never be diminished by the test of time. An essential viewing. Strongly recommended!

Come and See is an incredibly powerful and harrowing war film that offers an unflinching look into the horrors of World War II. It tells the story of a young boy who gets involved in the resistance against the Nazis, exposing him to the brutal realities of war. The film's performances are outstanding, with the actors delivering emotionally charged portrayals that leave a lasting impact. The cinematography is visually stunning, capturing the devastation and chaos of the war-torn landscapes. The movie is filled with intense and heart-wrenching scenes that evoke strong emotions. Come and See is a deeply affecting and thought-provoking film that sheds light on the dark side of human nature and the profound consequences of war. It is a cinematic masterpiece that will stay with you long after the credits roll.